Subrata Paul, Arjuna awardee footballer, fails NADA's dope test

In a shocking development, ace Indian footballer Subrata Paul has failed a dope test conducted by the National Anti-Doping agency (NADA).

NADA has communicated the same to the All India Football Federation (AIFF).

"Subrata's A sample has tested positive for a banned substance and he has already been informed. He has to now decide whether he intends to submit his B sample for testing," a source was quoted as saying by TOI late on Monday.

However, it is yet to be confirmed whether Paul has been suspended by AIFF. As per the rules of the world governing body Federation International de Football Association (FIFA), a player who fails a drug test must be suspended by his/her federation within a week of the result.

Paul was tested in Mumbai ahead of India’s friendly against Cambodia which preceded the 2019 Asian Cup qualifier away to Myanmar on March 28. The test was conducted by officials of the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA).

Once reportedly said to be the highest paid Indian footballer, Paul has made 60 appearances for the national team since making his debut in 2007. He is no more the favourite glovesman after losing his place to Gurpreet Singh Sandhu.

Nicknamed Spiderman, Paul has won multiple Nehru Cups (2007, 2009) and the Asian Football Confederation's (AFC) Challenge Cup 2008. He was also conferred with the Arjuna award last year.